Heather Benedict

Motivated and enthusiastic about helping team members meet and exceed objectives with compassionate leadership. Talented trainer and operational problem-solver with front-line experience and collaborative nature. Resourceful in balancing customer, company and employee needs. Strong leader known for decisiveness and problem-solving skills.

Effective communication with agency employees at all levels. Ability to supervise subordinates and promote cooperative work efforts among them. Experienced in planning and scheduling staffing to ensure adequate coverage in the operations center. Ability to efficiently schedule training of new employees. Trusted Peer Support Team Member with a passion for employee wellness. Encourages employee growth, both personally and professionally.

Substantial knowledge of all equipment used within the center, as well as the methods, practices, procedures and policies for dispatching emergency response equipment and emergency responders. Highly skilled in the efficient operation of communications system equipment including the use of computers and the programs and applications necessary for successful job performance. Ability to quickly detect, analyze and correct malfunctions in communications equipment. Vast knowledge of state and national teletype computer systems.

Routinely handle complaints from citizens as well as outside agency personnel. Effectively communicate with employees during counseling, both orally and in writing. Ability to understand and express ideas clearly and concisely, orally and in writing. Ability to maintain and develop records and reports as needed. Ability to react quickly and calmly in emergencies as well as providing guidance to subordinates during emergency situations. Maintaining strong working relationships with members of outside and partnering agencies.

• Certified Emergency Medical Dispatcher, International Academy of Emergency Dispatchers - September 2003
• FCIC/NCIC Full Access Certification, FDLE - January 2005
• Basic SKYWARN Spotter Course Training - July 2011
• Crisis Intervention Team Training - October 2011
• Certified 911 Public Safety Telecommunicator, FL Dept. of Health - November 2011
• Certified Communications Training Officer, APCO International - February 2012
• Introduction to Incident Command System (ICS-100) Training - March 2012
• ICS for Single Resources and Initial Action Incident (ICS-200) Training - April 2012
• Certified Emergency Fire Dispatcher, International Academy of Emergency Dispatchers - June 2012
• Certified Emergency Police Dispatcher, International Academy of Emergency Dispatchers - June 2012
• Introduction to Community Emergency Response Teams (ICS-317) Training - July 2012
• National Incident Management Systems (ICS-700) Training - July 2012
• Certified EMD-Q, International Academy of Emergency Dispatchers - September 2012
• Certified EPD-Q, International Academy of Emergency Dispatchers - March 2015
• Certified EFD-Q, International Academy of Emergency Dispatchers - March 2015
• Assisting Individuals in Crisis and Group Crisis Intervention, International Critical Incident Stress Foundation - June 2022
• 28 CFR Part 23 - June 2024
• LexisNexis Accurint - June 2024
• Florida Law Enforcement Analyst Training Program - February 2025